Michigan Task Force 1 (MI-TF1) Deploys to Hurricane Irma under an EMAC Request

MI-TF1 deployed from Holly, MI on a 11-day mission to assist in the response to Hurricane Irma. MI-TF1 is scheduled to stage in Jacksonville, FL with Florida-TF5, Wisconsin-TF1 and Tennesse-TF2 before receiving their mission assignments to begin helping Florida residents.

MI-TF1 deployed 45 highly trained personnel from across the State of Michigan in 18 vehicles that are capable of Surface Water Rescue, Wide Area Searches, Structural Collapse, Canine, and Technical Search that are equipped to be self-sustaining for 11 days.

MI-TF1 is sponsored by Michigan Mutual Aid Box Alarm System (MI-MABAS) which organizes state-wide fire assets. MI-MABAS has worked very closely with Michigan State Police Emergency Management Homeland Security Division (MSP EMHSD) for the first fire service out-of-state response under Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC).

“This truly has been a collaborative effort by federal, state, county, local and public partners to make this deployment possible. Our members are highly trained and ready to serve the State of Florida as they deal with this catastrophic event.” David McIntyre, MI-TF1 Program Manager.

MI-TF1 has received grant funding from FEMA Homeland Security, Urban Area Security Initiative (UASI), various Counties, and Locals. MI-TF1 members are local firefighters sponsored by their departments or private members that bring special skill sets. In addition to firefighters trained in hazmat, technical rescue, and EMS, MI-TF1 deployed Canine Search Specialists, Heavy Equipment Operators, Structural Engineers, and Medical Doctors